Feta Cheese Ball: Easy, Festive Appetizer

The countdown is on until the biggest countdown of the year, and whether you're hosting or attending any New Year's Eve festivities, you're likely looking for a great appetizer to wow your friends and family.

This feta cheese ball is one of my go-to appetizers that I make in a pinch because it's easy and always disappears quickly. Everyone likes a good cheese ball, but good is critical (and too often lacking in cheese balls), and this one is. Also, instead of that strange orange color many of them sport, this one is a nice festive white with a sprinkling of green onions and parsley to brighten things up.

I have no idea where I got this recipe -- likely from someone who made it at a party I attended years ago -- but it's well worn in my files.

Feta Cheese Ball

1 8-ounce package of cream cheese

4 ounces of feta cheese

1/4 cup butter

1/3 cup chopped black olives

2 Tablespoons finely chopped green onions

1/4 cup snipped parsley or finely chopped pecans

Bring cheeses and butter to room temperature. Beat until combined.

Stir in olives and onion, then cover and chill for at least 4 hours (and up to 24 hours).